House sale: challenges and tips for a successful completion
At first glance, selling a house seems straightforward. Property portals such as Immoscout or Immowelt make the process seem simple. But anyone who takes a closer look at the subject soon realises that selling a house requires more than just a few photos and an online advertisement.
1. how much is my property worth?
The first step in selling a property is the valuation. Simply looking at the prices in the neighbourhood is often not enough. In addition to the location and the number of square metres, other factors play a role, such as
- Year of construction: Older buildings may require modernisation.
- Equipment: High-quality materials and extras such as underfloor heating increase the value.
- Renovation status: Well-maintained properties achieve better prices.
A professional property valuation offers security and a realistic assessment.
2. which documents are required?
You will need various documents for a successful sale, including
- Extract from the land register: Provides information on ownership and encumbrances.
- Parcel map: Shows the location and boundaries of the property.
- Building plans and energy certificate: Mandatory information for all marketing.
Applying for missing documents costs time and money. You should therefore start organising early.
3. create an exposé: How to make a good first impression
The exposé is your business card for potential buyers. It should:
- Present your property attractively.
- All important information such as size, year of construction and equipment included.
- Address the right target group in a targeted manner.
A professional exposé reduces queries and facilitates the selection of serious potential buyers.
4. plan and carry out inspections
Viewings can be stressful, especially if the property is still occupied. To keep an overview:
- Plan viewing appointments specifically and avoid mass viewings.
- Create a list of seriously interested parties to avoid „viewing tourism“.
- Be honest about the condition of the property to build trust.
5. choose the right buyer
At the end of the process, it's all about choosing the right buyer. Check:
- Financing: Is there a binding financing commitment?
- Price negotiation: Stay confident to defend the value of your property.
Negotiating skills are crucial here in order to achieve the optimum sales price.
Conclusion: Selling a house requires planning and expertise
Selling a property is a complex process that requires thorough preparation and organisation. From the valuation to the selection of the buyer: Every step needs to be well thought out.
Get non-binding advice now
Robert Schüßler
Property valuer (EIA and IHK)
Note: This text is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Please consult an expert if you have individual questions.
